Pin A budget-friendly, family-favorite twist on classic Sloppy Joes, these bell peppers are filled with savory beef and tomato sauce, then baked until perfectly tender.
I have always enjoyed Sloppy Joes, and stuffing them into bell peppers makes the meal healthier and more fun for my whole family.
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Ingredients
- Vegetables: 4 large bell peppers (any color), 1 small yellow onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- Sauce & Seasonings: 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Toppings: 1/2 cup (60 g) shredded cheddar cheese
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers upright.
- Step 2:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 4:
- Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 5:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Step 6:
- Arrange bell peppers in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into each pepper.
- Step 7:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Uncover, sprinkle each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5 7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 9:
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Pin These peppers have quickly become a staple at our family dinners and bring everyone to the table happy and satisfied.
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Required Tools
Large skillet, baking dish, knife and cutting board, spoon or spatula, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) and soy&gluten if using regular Worcestershire sauce. For gluten-free use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories 335, Total Fat 17 g, Carbohydrates 18 g, Protein 26 g (per serving)
Pin
This recipe is sure to become a favorite addition to your weekly meal rotation and impress anyone who tries it.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce to avoid gluten-containing ingredients.
- → What cheeses can I use instead of cheddar?
Smoked gouda or pepper jack are excellent alternatives that add distinct flavors.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
The filling can be made ahead and refrigerated; assemble and bake the peppers before serving.
- → What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad complement the baked peppers nicely.